If you work a physical job, you depend on the strength and dexterity of your hands, arms and legs to complete daily tasks. Suffering a serious work injury could leave you unable to continue to perform your job. In some cases, the reduced function of your limb will be a short-term issue. Once the bone, connective tissue or muscle has healed, you can return to work. In other cases with more severe injuries, you may never fully regain the same strength and range of motion that you once had. In these situations, you may find yourself unable to continue in the same line of work as before the accident.
The older you are when you suffer serious workplace injuries, the more frightening the potential consequences. A debilitating injury in your 50s or 60s could mean not only losing your income but needing to live off your retirement funds before you’re ready. That can leave you in a seriously compromised financial situation. If you have recently suffered a serious workplace injury, you need to speak with an experienced California workplace law and workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible. Your attorney can help you determine what you should do next to protect yourself.
Workers’ compensation should protect those with work-related injuries
Workers’ compensation exists to help ensure that those who suffer injuries at work won’t end up in poverty. The programs works in a number of ways to help those who sustained injuries or developed serious illnesses as a result of working. First and foremost, California workers’ compensation pays for the medical costs associated with an injury, from trauma care and surgery to physical therapy. Additionally, you will receive wage replacement while you are temporarily disabled due to the injury. With a qualified medical examination, you may also be classified as permanently disabled.
Sometimes, however, even valid claims can get denied. There are a number of reasons why this could happen. You may have failed to fill out necessary forms. Your employer may be contesting your version of events, or you may need additional medical documentation. If you worry about your benefits getting denied, you need to speak with an experienced California workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible.
An attorney will fight for fair treatment after a work injury
You shouldn’t have to live in fear of financial ruin because of a workplace injury. In cases where the function, strength or range of motion of your hand, arm or leg changed, you may end up struggling to work or to provide for your own daily care. An experienced attorney can help you fight for the benefits you needs and can connect you with professionals who can help with any appeals that must be filed.
Source: Nov. 30, -0001
